CJC-1295 is sold in two versions, “with DAC” and “no DAC”, which often causes confusion. They share the same peptide sequence. The difference is a small chemical addition that changes how long the molecule lasts. This article explains what that addition is and why researchers choose one version or the other.
The base peptide: a GHRH analogue
Growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) is a hypothalamic peptide that signals the pituitary to release growth hormone. Its biological activity lies in the first 29 amino acids, a fragment known as GRF(1-29). CJC-1295 is based on this fragment with four amino-acid substitutions that make it far more resistant to breakdown by enzymes. This modified fragment is sometimes called “Modified GRF(1-29)” or “Mod GRF 1-29”.
What DAC adds
DAC stands for Drug Affinity Complex. It is a reactive chemical group attached to the peptide that forms a covalent bond with albumin, the most abundant protein in blood plasma. Once bound to albumin, the peptide is protected from rapid clearance and circulates far longer.
- CJC-1295 no DAC has a short half-life, measured in minutes, similar to the natural signalling pattern of GHRH.
- CJC-1295 with DAC has a half-life measured in days, giving sustained rather than pulsed receptor activation.
Why the difference matters in research
Growth hormone is naturally released in pulses. The choice between the two versions is therefore a choice between two research models: short, pulse-like GHRH receptor signalling (no DAC) or prolonged, continuous signalling (with DAC). Which one suits a study depends on the question being asked.
CJC-1295 and ipamorelin
CJC-1295 is often studied alongside ipamorelin, a selective agonist of the ghrelin receptor (also called the growth hormone secretagogue receptor). The two act on different receptors in the same pathway, GHRH and ghrelin receptors, which is why they are researched together. ReVICO supplies a CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin blend for this purpose.
At a glance
| No DAC | With DAC | |
|---|---|---|
| Peptide | Modified GRF(1-29) | Modified GRF(1-29) + DAC |
| Albumin binding | No | Yes (covalent) |
| Half-life | Minutes | Days |
| Signalling model | Pulsed | Sustained |
Research compounds: CJC-1295 No DAC (5mg) · CJC-1295 With DAC (2mg) · Tesamorelin (10mg), another GHRH analogue
All ReVICO Labs products are supplied for laboratory research use only. They are not for human or veterinary consumption and are not approved by Health Canada for therapeutic or diagnostic use.
